Package Best For
Let’s on a spiritually rich and culturally grand journey through the sacred temples of Tamil Nadu and the lush backwaters of Kerala. This 11-day tour offers an inspiring blend of divine architecture, ancient rituals, French colonial charm, and nature’s serenity. Start from the vibrant city of Chennai, explore temple towns like Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, and Madurai, before moving into the green landscapes of Thekkady, cruising the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, and ending your journey in the cultural port city of Cochin. This itinerary is ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with South India’s spiritual essence and scenic beauty.
Tour Highlights
- Chennai – Introduction to Tamil culture and Dravidian temples
- Mahabalipuram – UNESCO heritage rock-cut temples and shore temples
- Pondicherry – Auroville, French Quarter, and spiritual serenity
- Thanjavur – Magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple and classical arts
- Madurai – Meenakshi Amman Temple, rituals and heritage walks
- Thekkady – Spice plantations and Periyar wildlife sanctuary
- Alleppey – Traditional Kerala houseboat cruise through the backwaters
- Cochin – Colonial charm, Jewish Town, Kathakali performances
Tour Itinerary
Day-1: Arrival in Chennai
Arrive in Chennai, the gateway to South India. Meet our representative at the airport and transfer to your hotel. After check-in and some rest, begin exploring the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and known for its colorful gopuram and Dravidian architecture. Stop by the San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle. Drive along Marina Beach, the longest urban beach in India. Evening at leisure to rest or enjoy local cuisine. Overnight stay in Chennai.
Day-2: Chennai – Mahabalipuram (Approx. 60 km / 1.5 hrs)
After breakfast, travel to Mahabalipuram, an ancient port city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check into your beachside resort and begin exploring its fascinating rock-cut monuments.
Visit the iconic Shore Temple, beautifully perched by the Bay of Bengal, and the famous Five Rathas, monolithic chariots carved out of a single rock. Explore Arjuna’s Penance, a massive open-air bas-relief, and Krishna’s Butter Ball, a gravity-defying rock boulder. Evening walk by the sea and enjoy a seafood dinner at a coastal café. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
Visit the iconic Shore Temple, beautifully perched by the Bay of Bengal, and the famous Five Rathas, monolithic chariots carved out of a single rock. Explore Arjuna’s Penance, a massive open-air bas-relief, and Krishna’s Butter Ball, a gravity-defying rock boulder. Evening walk by the sea and enjoy a seafood dinner at a coastal café. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.
Day-3: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry (Approx. 100 km / 2.5 hrs)
After breakfast, proceed to Pondicherry, the former French colony with a spiritual aura. On arrival, check into your heritage hotel in the French Quarter. Explore Sri Aurobindo Ashram, a center for spiritual practice and yoga. In the afternoon, visit Auroville, the international township promoting peace and unity, and admire the striking Matrimandir from outside. Stroll through charming Rue Suffren and Rue Romain Rolland, lined with mustard-yellow colonial buildings, quaint cafés, and art galleries. Enjoy the evening at Rock Beach or shop for incense, handmade paper, and crafts. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Day-4: Pondicherry – Thanjavur (Approx. 170 km / 4.5 hrs)
Depart after breakfast for Thanjavur, the cultural heart of Tamil Nadu. On arrival, check in and relax before heading out to visit the Brihadeeswara Temple (Big Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Raja Raja Chola I. Admire its massive Nandi statue and towering vimana (temple tower). Explore the Thanjavur Palace Complex, which houses the Royal Palace Museum, Saraswati Mahal Library, and exquisite Chola bronze sculptures. Evening free to enjoy classical music or browse for Tanjore paintings. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.
Day-5: Thanjavur – Madurai (Approx. 190 km / 4.5 hrs)
After breakfast, travel to Madurai, the city of temples and traditions. On arrival, check into your hotel and rest briefly. In the evening, visit the majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and known for its soaring gopurams covered in vibrant deities. Witness the evening Aarti ceremony or the celestial wedding procession of Shiva and Meenakshi (based on temple schedule). Stroll through the vibrant bazaars around the temple and enjoy South Indian street food. Overnight stay in Madurai.
Day-6: Madurai – Temple Trail & Heritage Walk
Today, delve deeper into Madurai’s spiritual and cultural richness. Start with a heritage walk through the old city, visiting Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, an architectural marvel with massive domes and pillars. Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum, showcasing India’s independence struggle. Later, explore local markets like Puthu Mandapam, famous for traditional fabrics, jewelry, and handicrafts. Overnight stay in Madurai. Optional: Attend a classical dance performance or a South Indian cooking session.
Day-7: Madurai – Thekkady (Approx. 140 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, head into Kerala’s hills toward Thekkady, known for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and spice plantations. Check into your jungle lodge or resort. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on Periyar Lake, where you might spot elephants, wild boar, deer, and exotic birds. Later, take a guided spice plantation tour, learning about Kerala’s famous spices cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper. Optional: Attend a Kalaripayattu martial arts show or an Ayurvedic massage. Overnight stay in Thekkady.
Day-8: Thekkady – Alleppey (Backwaters) (Approx. 140 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Alleppey, the hub of Kerala’s mesmerizing backwaters. Board a private houseboat for a day-long cruise through palm-fringed canals, paddy fields, and village hamlets. Enjoy traditional Kerala meals onboard, prepared by the boat crew. Relax on the deck as the houseboat floats past coconut groves and toddy tappers, offering a glimpse into rural life. Sunset over the backwaters is a highlight. Overnight stay on the houseboat.
Day-9: Alleppey – Cochin (Approx. 55 km / 1.5 hrs)
After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive to Cochin (Kochi), Kerala’s historic port city. Check into your hotel in Fort Kochi, a charming colonial neighborhood. In the afternoon, visit Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), Paradesi Synagogue, and St. Francis Church (India’s oldest European church). Walk along the harbor to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets in action at sunset. Overnight stay in Cochin. Evening Attend a Kathakali dance performance, including a makeup demonstration.
Day-10: Cochin – Local Life & Spice Trails
After breakfast, dive deeper into Cochin’s culture. Start with a guided heritage walk, exploring narrow lanes filled with art galleries, antique shops, and spice warehouses. Visit Jew Town, sample Kerala snacks, and learn about the spice trade history. Later, take a sunset harbor cruise or explore local cafés serving fusion cuisine. Overnight stay in Cochin. Optional: Enjoy a cooking demo with a local chef or a visit to a handloom weaving unit.
Day-11: Departure from Cochin
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey. Leave with divine memories of temple rituals, serene backwaters, and South India’s timeless spiritual energy.
Note: This itinerary is fully customizable. We can adjust the duration, add Ayurveda or yoga retreats, arrange special temple ceremonies, or upgrade accommodations based on your preferences. The best time to travel is between October and March for comfortable weather and major festivals.